Abstract: Developing the Gen IV nuclear energy system with higher safety and economy isthe focus ofcurrent research as the nuclear energy is a clean energy. To develop the materials with excellent comprehensive properties has become the urgent problem as the traditional zirconium alloy was unable to adapt the harsh service environment ofthe Gen IV nuclear energy system. Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steel is considered to be an important candidate clad materialfor the Gen IV energy system owning to its excellent comprehensive properties. Reasonable composition design and unique microstructureareimportant reasons for the excellent properties of ODS steel. The high number density of dispersed oxide particles greatly improves the high temperature mechanical properties and irradiation resistance of the alloy. Although a lot of research work has been carried out around the world on the composition design-property-preparation process of ODS steels, therestillexists challenges in mass production that limit the engineering applications of ODS steels. This paper summarizes and analyzes the research work on microstructure, composition design and preparation technology of ODS steels in domestic and international, and summarizes and outlooks the application prospects and current problems of ODS steels in the field of nuclear energy, so as to provide reference for the development of nuclear-grade ODS steels.